Filming of Fungus the Bogeyman in Totternhoe

Stewart Carr

Classic children’s story Fungus the Bogeyman is being adapted for a Christmas TV special – and you’ll never guess where his special lair is...

The lush countryside of Sewell Cutting in Totternhoe has been used as the entrance to Fungus’s underground home.

Producer John Chapman said: “We chose the area because of the Downs and that beautiful scenery with the chalk hills.

“There are two or three spectacular shots of the Downs that people will recognise if they watch the show.”

Starring Timothy Spall as Fungus, with a supporting cast of Keeley Hawes, Victoria Wood, Marc Warren, Paul Kaye and Joanna Scanlan, the full scale production promises to be a treat over the holidays.

Based on the 1970’s children’s book by Raymond Briggs, Fungus the Bogeyman tells the story of its working class titular character who lives underground and has the job of scaring humans.

The TV special will be broadcast in four parts over the Christmas period. Much of the drama will centre on Fungus’s relationship with his son, Mould, and wife, Mildew.

Timothy Spall commented on the production: “Fungus has brought joy to generations of children and I am so thrilled to be playing such a beloved character.

“It’s great to be working to bring Fungus the Bogeyman out of the pages of Raymond Briggs’ book and on to the small screen this Christmas.”

Adam MacDonald, Director of Sky 1 added: “I’m beyond excited that Sky 1 and Imaginarium Studios will be bringing the Raymond Briggs’ classic Fungus the Bogeyman squelchingly up to date as a top quality, ambitious and joyous family treat for our customers.”